Sugar Cookie Banana Bread Recipe: A Sweet, Soft, and Delightfully Unique Twist on a Classic
Sugar Cookie Banana Bread is the perfect fusion of two beloved treats: the buttery, vanilla flavor of a sugar cookie and the moist, tender crumb of banana bread. This dessert (or breakfast!) is everything you love about banana bread—but upgraded with a sugar cookie-like crust, sweet vanilla notes, and a golden crackly top. Whether you’re looking to use up ripe bananas or simply craving something cozy and comforting, this recipe is a fun and flavorful way to shake up your usual banana bread routine.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Sugar Cookie Banana Bread combines the rich moisture of classic banana bread with the sweet, nostalgic flavor of a sugar cookie. A touch of vanilla and a sprinkle of sugar on top creates that signature cookie vibe, while the inside stays perfectly soft and buttery. It’s a simple quick bread that looks unassuming—but surprises everyone with its dessert-like flavor and addictive texture. Great for brunch, snacking, or gifting!
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 8–10 slices
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 very ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
1. Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly flour it for easy removal.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and ¾ cup sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Add the Bananas
Mix in the mashed bananas until fully combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled—this is normal.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
5. Add the Cookie Crunch Topping
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the top. This creates a lightly crisp, cookie-like crust.
6. Bake and Cool
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Variations
- Sugar Cookie Glaze: Drizzle a quick vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + milk + vanilla) over the top after baking.
- Add-Ins: Stir in white chocolate chips or sprinkles for an even more sugar cookie-like flavor.
- Brown Butter Version: Use browned butter in the batter for a deeper, nuttier taste.
- Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the batter and top for a fun texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer (or sturdy whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: ~240
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
(Values may vary depending on optional add-ins.)
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Can be refrigerated for up to 1 week; bring to room temp before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
My Cooking Experience
With over 4 years of recipe development under my belt, I love taking familiar recipes and giving them a creative twist. This Sugar Cookie Banana Bread started as a happy experiment—and now it’s one of my most requested bakes. The vanilla flavor and sugar crust remind people of their favorite childhood cookie, while the moist banana bread keeps it wholesome and comforting. It’s always a win at brunch tables, bake sales, or just as a cozy afternoon snack.
Conclusion
Sugar Cookie Banana Bread is a delicious mash-up of two classics that’s sure to become a household favorite. With its soft crumb, sweet crust, and warm banana-vanilla flavor, it’s ideal for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you need a comforting treat. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to bring smiles with every slice. Try it once—and you’ll be baking it again and again.
sugar cookie banana bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly flour it for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and ¾ cup sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in the mashed bananas until fully combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled—this is normal.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the top. This creates a lightly crisp, cookie-like crust.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Can be refrigerated for up to 1 week; bring to room temp before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
